We want access to Headley: Chidambaram

Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Sunday said the Indian government was pursuing its case for having an access to American terror suspect David Headley, who is being tried in the United States.

"We want an access to Headley for interrogation," Chidambaram said, addressing a press conference after visiting the site of Saturday night's blast in Pune.

However, there are legal difficulties in the matter, he said, adding that the matter was being pursued by the government.

Headley is believed to have stayed at the Osho Ashram, located near the blast site -- German Bakery -- during his visit to Pune.

To a query, the Home minister noted that Headley had visited India prior to 26/11 attacks and said that there was always a scope for improvement in intelligence gathering.

On the trial of sole surviving 26/11 gunman Ajmal Kasab, Chidambaram said it was on a "fast track" and the recording of prosecution evidence was complete.

"He is the sole surviving terrorist of 26/11 attack and it enhances our dignity that he is being given a fair trial in a court of law".

It is a "model trial" and "we must allow" the judge to pronounce his order, Chidambaram said.

US condemns Pune blast, offers help

Condemning the bomb blast in Pune, the United States on Sunday said it will "assist" India as needed to help bring the perpetrators of the "cowardly act" to justice.

Offering his condolences, US Ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer said "on behalf of the people of the United States, I extend heartfelt sympathy to the Government of India and the victims" of the tragic terrorist blast in Pune.

"The US remains shoulder-to-shoulder with India in the fight against terror and will assist as needed to help bring the perpetrators of this cowardly act to justice," Roemer said.

For more on the Pune blast, click here!